Alterations to a natural lakeJackson Lake is the largest of the park's many lakes formed by glaciers. The lake expanded when the Bureau of Reclamation built a dam in 1907, creating a reservoir on top of a natural lake. The water behind the dam provides irrigation water to communities in Idaho through the Minidoka Project.Jackson Lake Dam allows the Bureau of Reclamation to manage the lake's water level. Sometimes, they keep the level low to capture meltwater. Other times, the level is low due to lack of precipitation.Lake levels and climate changeThe water level of Jackson Lake varies from year to year due to seasonal precipitation amounts, winter snowpack, and irrigation demands. In some years the reservoir may start completely full of meltwater from winter's deep snow but end the summer nearly empty, drained to meet water needs downstream.The National Park Service is committed to reducing its contributions to climate change through conserving energy and water, promoting alternative transportation, constructing green buildings, and minimizing waste.Enhancing the Natural ResourceJackson Lake Dam increased the lake's capacity by 30 percent and raised the water level nearly 40 feet. Reservoir levels vary, however the natural lake is always full.Climate change affects glaciers, too. Research indicates that the park's glaciers have receded significantly in the last 100 years.
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